Seeing a Broadway show is an exciting experience unlike any other. With spectacular sets, costumes, music, and performances, Broadway shows transport audiences into new worlds right on the stage. When you go to see a Broadway show like the popular musical The Music Man, you want to make sure you get the most out of the experience by getting the best seats in the theater.
What makes a Broadway theater seat the “best”?
The “best” Broadway seats are a matter of personal preference, budget, and availability. Here are some factors to consider when selecting seats for a Broadway show like The Music Man:
- View of the stage – You want an unobstructed view of the stage so you don’t miss any of the action. Center orchestra seats in the middle of the theater generally have the best views.
- Orchestra vs. mezzanine – The orchestra (ground floor) is closer to the stage while the mezzanine (balcony) is farther away but elevated. Both have pros and cons.
- Distance from stage – How close or far you are from the performers. Front orchestra rows are extremely close.
- Angle – Side seats in the orchestra or mezzanine can be angled toward the stage for better viewing.
- Price – Broadway tickets can be very expensive. Front orchestra seats are generally the highest in demand and cost.
- Acoustics – Sound quality can vary depending on the theater’s architecture. Center orchestra often has the best acoustics.
Tips for Getting the Best Seat at The Music Man
Here are some tips specific to getting great seats for Broadway’s hit musical The Music Man:
- Aim for the center orchestra – The Music Man has a lot of dancing, so center orchestra seats in rows C-G are ideal. You’ll be close to the action with a straight on view.
- Avoid the far sides – The side orchestra and mezzanine seats are very angled and can make viewing difficult.
- Prioritize the first few rows of the mezzanine if orchestra isn’t available – You’ll have an elevated view over any heads in front of you.
- Check the seat map when booking – Make sure your view isn’t obstructed by railings or overhangs in the theater.
- Consider a weekday matinee to save money – Weekend evenings are most expensive. Matinees have good availability at lower prices.
Orchestra vs. Mezzanine Seats
One of the biggest decisions when choosing seats for The Music Man is whether you want to be in the orchestra or mezzanine section. Here is a comparison:
| Orchestra | Mezzanine | |
|---|---|---|
| View | Very close to the stage. Lower sight lines can be obstructed by performers on upper platforms. | Farther from the stage with an elevated view over orchestra heads. Upper platforms visible. |
| Price | Most expensive, especially for front and center seats. | Less expensive the farther back you go. Front mezzanine cheaper than rear orchestra. |
| Accessibility | Orchestra level is wheelchair accessible. No stairs. | Mezzanine requires climbing stairs to access upper level. |
| Feeling | Puts you right in the action up close to performers. | Creates a more detached, birds-eye view of the show. |
While orchestra seats are more coveted, the mezzanine provides great value seats, especially if you sit near the front. Rear and far side orchestra seats also have drawbacks, so don’t rule out mezzanine.
Best Seats for Key Scenes
Certain key scenes and songs in The Music Man demand the best viewing. Here are ideal seats for some of the most popular musical numbers:
“Seventy-Six Trombones”
This showstopping act one finale features marching bands parading through the theater aisles. Sit in the center orchestra section near the aisles to see the exciting procession up close.
Marian the Librarian
During this intimate act two ballad, Harold serenades Marian. Sit in the middle orchestra rows E-H for the best sight lines during their dance.
Bridge Scene
In this iconic scene, the footbridge lights up against the night sky backdrop. Front mezzanine center provides the perfect vantage point.
“Goodnight My Someone”
Towards the end of act two, Marian sings this heartfelt solo on her front porch set piece. Sit in the middle orchestra rows D-H to feel part of the poignant moment.
Best Seats for Your Budget
Ticket prices for The Music Man can vary greatly depending on date, time, and section. Here are the best seats in different price ranges:
| Budget | Best Seats | Price Range* |
|---|---|---|
| Splurge | Front Center Orchestra, Rows A-D | $200-$500 |
| Moderate | Front Mezzanine, Rows A-C | $100-$200 |
| Budget | Rear Mezzanine, Rows D-F | $50-$100 |
*Ranges are approximate for regular performances. Premium dates and times will be more expensive.
If your budget is flexible, splurge for the Orchestra rows A-F for the full Broadway experience. But the mezzanine offers great value seats with strong views and cheaper prices farther back.
Where to Avoid Sitting for The Music Man
While any seat at The Music Man will let you enjoy the show, some areas of the theater have drawbacks. Here are some seats to potentially avoid:
- Far left and right Orchestra – Angled and can cut off parts of stage
- Rear Orchestra corners – View and sound quality compromised
- First mezzanine row – Low railing can obstruct view
- Under Mezzanine overhang – Limits visibility and sound muffled
- Rear Mezzanine corners – Farthest from stage with angular views
Review the seat map carefully before purchasing tickets and try to avoid these problem spots in favor of center orchestra or front mezzanine locations.
Timing Your Purchase for the Best Availability
The earlier you purchase tickets for The Music Man, the better availability you’ll have for the prime seats. Here are some tips on timing:
- Buy 6-12 months out for premium dates like weekend evenings, holidays, and school vacations
- 2-6 months out generally has good availability before most tickets get purchased
- 1 month out has more limited options, especially for seats together
- 3 weeks to days before has single seats and obstructed views left
Set a calendar reminder to buy your Music Man tickets as early as you can to lock in the best seats for your date at the lowest prices.
Best Seats for Children
Bringing kids to The Music Man? Make sure they have good sight lines so they can see over adults’ heads. Recommended seats include:
- Front Mezzanine: Elevated view, able to see over orchestra heads
- Front Orchestra aisles: Unobstructed angle and up close
- Rear Orchestra aisles: Can stand or sit with view over rows
An aisle seat also makes it easy to slip out if needed. For very young children, the rear orchestra near exits reduces disruption.
Best Seats for Smaller Adults
Being on the shorter side myself, I know the struggle of trying to see over and around taller patrons. For best views, opt for these seats:
- Front Mezzanine: Elevated above orchestra level
- Center Orchestra Rows D-F: Close but avoiding very front rows
- Box Seats: Side boxes adjacent to the stage (limited availability)
Avoid the rear half of the orchestra where it’s harder to see over rows of heads. Booster seats are not permitted in theaters for safety reasons.
Best Seats for Taller Adults
Tall adults often have the opposite issue – avoiding restricted legroom. Recommended seats include:
- Front and Rear Orchestra aisles: Extra legroom
- Rear Orchestra center: More comfortable and stretched out
- Front Mezzanine aisles: Legs can extend into the aisles
Avoid orchestra center seats with cramped leg space. An aisle or mezzanine provides the most comfort and space.
Best Seats for Limited Mobility
For those with limited mobility, I suggest:
- Front Orchestra: Close to stage without needing to climb stairs
- Rear Orchestra sides: Near exits to easily come and go
- Box Seats: Wheelchair accessible with great views (limited availability)
The orchestra level is safest and most convenient for limited mobility guests. Mezzanine requires stair access.
Best Seats for Maximizing Your View of Hugh Jackman
Let’s be honest, the opportunity to see beloved actor Hugh Jackman star as Professor Harold Hill is a huge draw. To maximize all those Hugh Jackman viewing opportunities, I suggest:
- Center Orchestra rows D-F: Close proximity ideal for admiring those leading man looks
- Front Mezzanine center: Premium elevated sight lines during every scene
- Stage right orchestra aisles: Hugh’s best side featuring his unforgettable dance numbers
No seat in the theater has a bad view, but these locations put you closest to the Hugh Jackman action. Enjoy the show!
Good Seats for Saving Money on The Music Man
While the best seats for The Music Man come at a premium price, you can still get good seats on a budget. Cost-saving options include:
- Rear Orchestra rows R-T: Decent elevated view for about half the price of prime seats
- Rear Mezzanine corner: Budget views from the corners farther back
- Weekday matinees: Cheaper prices for weekday afternoon shows
- Off season shows: Less demand in fall and spring = deals on tickets
- Discount codes: Look for special promo codes online for 10-20% off
- Broadway ticket lotteries: Enter for chance at $40 day-of tickets
As long as you avoid the farthest corners, the rear orchestra and mezzanine provide the best budget friendly seats at The Music Man.
Conclusion
While all seats at The Music Man give you a chance to enjoy this fabulous show, small differences in location can really impact your experience. Follow the tips in this guide to choose the right seats for your budget, party size, height, and preferences. The center orchestra provides prime viewing at a premium cost, but don’t rule out front mezzanine seats for great elevated views at cheaper prices. With so many outstanding songs and performances in this Musical Americana hit, you want the perfect seat to take it all in. Enjoy the show!